Timaru Boys’ High School has closed its doors for the day following a “threat of harm to take place on Friday”.
In a message on the school’s “authorised” Facebook page, school rector Dave Thorp said, “Last night (Thurs 11/9/25), the school received an anonymous email containing a threat of harm to take place on Friday. We have contacted the police and they are investigating the possible source of this threat.”
“After much deliberation, we have decided to take the most cautious path available to us and close the school. Please keep students at home today,” Thorp said.
“We have extra staff at the Hostel tonight and parents are asked to pick the boys up in the morning,” the Facebook message said.
Thorp was unavailable for further comment at time of publishing.
A police spokesperson said, “Police have received reports outlining emails of concern directed at the school, and are making initial enquiries. In response, the school has made the decision to close today.”
Timaru Boys’ High School rector Dave Thorp’s message on the school’s ‘authorised’ Facebook page
A parent of a Timaru Boys’ High School student told chrislynchmedia.com there was an on-going bullying culture at the school.
“Every day children are getting physically hurt at that school and also emotionally and mentally bullied. Boys High have lost control,” they said.
The parent also has children at the neighbouring Bluestone School and was concerned the primary school was not closing for the day, too.
“The primary school right next door is still open but keeping the kids inside all day because of the threat… ridiculous,” they said.
“They [Bluestone] say there is no threat, and I don’t think there is, but they should resume as normal [allow children outside] or close. I’m keeping my two home from primary school today,” the parent said.
Bluestone principal Darren Smith has been approached for comment.
More soon.
